The Ballet Academy of Central Florida

The Ballet Academy of Central Florida was founded in 2000 by world-renowned dancer and director, Vasile Petrutiu, and "Orlando's ballerina" Heather Fryxell-Sanders. Upon opening, the Academy reached an enrollment of over 300 students in the first four months and continued with great success through its superior ballet training. Known for providing the finest Vaganova ballet training in Central Florida, students have attained professional careers with prestigious companies including San Francisco Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theater, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, Ballet MET, and Louisville Ballet. The Academy's students annually receive scholarships to coveted dance schools and companies worldwide (totaling more than 30 schools and companies to date) among numerous accolades at international ballet competitions including the World Ballet Competition, IBC Jackson, American Ballet Competition, and Youth America Grand Prix. Each year, students have performance opportunities through the Academy's annual Recital & through the Central Florida Ballet's professional programs including its Studio Company and acclaimed Nutcracker production.